Natural Ingredients and Ancient Practices
Throughout history, women have sought out various methods to enhance their beauty and skincare routines. From the creation of perfumes and cosmetics in ancient Egypt to the use of herbal remedies in traditional Chinese medicine, there are many effective beauty practices that have endured to this day.
Pearl Powder
In Ming Dynasty China, women applied pearl powder to their skin for its moisturizing properties. Chinese empresses were even known to consume it. A traditional Korean medicine book suggests mixing pearl powder with milk and applying it to the skin for optimal results.
Today, pearl powder remains a popular skincare ingredient. A Taiwanese study found that it helps rejuvenate the skin, reduces melanin pigmentation, boosts collagen production, and strengthens bones with its natural calcium content. Pearl powder also brightens the complexion, evens out skin tone, is non-irritating, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Jade Rollers
Ancient women used jade rollers, typically made from green jade or nephrite jade, to massage pressure points and promote blood circulation. Jade was favored by Chinese royalty for centuries to help smooth, firm, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Jade rollers are still available in cosmetic stores, allowing women to incorporate this ancient ritual into their modern skincare routines. After cleansing and applying moisturizer, roll the jade roller from the center of the face outward to stimulate circulation and brighten the skin.
Mint
For centuries, the Chinese have recognized the beauty benefits of mint, using it as a herbal remedy for acne, eczema, and psoriasis. They boiled mint roots to create a beverage. The root contains antioxidants baicalin, oroxylin A, and wogonin, which inhibit melanin production and protect against sun damage and blemishes.
Frankincense
Since biblical times, this aromatic resin has been used to heal wounds and reduce scars. In fact, before the invention of antibiotics, frankincense was more valuable than gold due to its natural antibacterial qualities. It is rich in boswellic acids, which help diminish scarring and signs of aging, in addition to its pleasing aroma.
Saffron
Ancient women indulged in luxurious baths of saffron-infused milk to enhance their skin. In 2010, an Iranian study found that saffron is a natural sunscreen. Additionally, saffron from the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco contains high levels of antioxidants, which help firm the skin, reduce wrinkles, sagging, and discoloration.
Today, some Indian and Moroccan women still wear a saffron face oil as a traditional form of makeup, believed to balance hormones and improve skin pigmentation.
Kohl Eye Makeup
Ancient Egyptians are famous for wearing this cosmetic as a thick eyeliner and brow liner. Traditionally made by grinding stibnite, a natural mineral, kohl was widely used in South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Africa, and parts of West Africa.
Kohl has been used in India as a cosmetic for centuries. Additionally, mothers would apply kohl to their infants shortly after birth to ward off the evil eye. Today, it is primarily used in eye makeup, especially in the entertainment industry.
Henna Hair Dye
As early as the 20th century BC, henna derived from the henna plant was used in India for hair dyeing. The dried leaves were crushed into a fine powder and mixed with water to form a paste applied to the hair or skin to create reddish-orange or brown tones. The solution was also used like ink to decorate the body with intricate designs for ceremonies and good luck. Henna art continues to be practiced today as an important part of Indian culture.
Rose Petals
Rose petals, rose oil, and rose water were popular beauty and aromatherapy secrets for ancient women. The ancient Babylonians recognized that rose water was an excellent skin moisturizer rich in antioxidants. It was applied to the face, hair, or body to brighten and clear the skin and hair. Rose oil is also known for its antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and aphrodisiac properties.
Modern cosmetics infused with roses, especially Bulgarian roses or Rosa Damascena, offer superior purity and are favored by women for their moisturizing and rejuvenating effects on the skin.
Hammam Baths
Hammam baths, or steam baths, were used by North African and Eastern European women in ancient times for their beautifying effects. In a typical hammam experience, individuals relax in a warm room and exfoliate with scrubs and loofah gloves. Bathing in such a steamy environment encourages the release of dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother, more hydrated complexion. It also promotes relaxation and overall well-being.
Natural Clay
Clay has been used since prehistoric times to detoxify the body. Even animals like elephants and hippos use it to cool their skin and ingest it to expel parasites.
According to researchers, pure clay can cleanse the body of heavy metals and other impurities. It can be consumed orally, but more commonly, ancient women used clay in the form of face masks to purify their complexions. Mixing clay with water and applying it to the body would nourish the skin.
Today, clay-based face masks are popular skincare products, prized for their ability to hydrate the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation, leaving a more even and radiant complexion.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The ancient Greeks are credited with discovering the beauty benefits of apple cider vinegar for treating acne and scalp conditions. Today, it continues to be a popular ingredient in both hair and skincare regimens.